About the
Al Downing Tampa Bay Jazz Association, Inc.

The start of The Al Downing Tampa Bay Jazz Association can be traced to the joint efforts of Al Downing and Ernie Calhoun, renowned saxophonist and humanitarian who still resides in Tampa, Florida. Its beginnings were in 1981 and emerged from two jazz organizations in 1989. Today it provides jazz opportunities for enthusiasts throughout the Tampa Bay area.

The primary focus of the association is to encourage the understanding and appreciation of jazz.

The ADTBJA:

Promotes the understanding of jazz, its origins and
evolution

Presents live jazz performances

Works with youths who are interested in learning to
explore and perform jazz

Informs the public about jazz clinics, festivals,
performances, events and club scenes

Provides scholarships to students who plan to further
their jazz studies